North Lismore: Fire crews battle massive blaze at old Richmond River High

Dozens of firefighters were battling a massive fire which has engulfed an old high school on the north coast.

Fire crews battle massive fire at the old Richmond River High at North Lismore on March 28, 2025. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW.

Dozens of firefighters were battling a massive blaze at an old school on the north coast on Friday night.

Emergency services were called to old Richmond River High on Lake Rd, North Lismore, following reports that the front of the school was on fire.

Crews arrived to find at least one building well alight.

A Fire and Rescue NSW spokesman said 30 firefighters were on scene at 8pm, including six fire trucks and a hazardous materials vehicle.

There have been reports of building collapses.

Police have set up a 150m exclusion zone around the school as fire crews attempt to stop the flames from spreading.

Fire crews battle massive blaze at the old Richmond River High site on Lake Rd, North Lismore. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW.

More than 30 firefighters are at the scene. Picture: Fire and Rescue NSW.

A drone has also been deployed for thermal imaging and assist in giving an aerial outlook for fire crews.

Crews from Lismore, Goonellabah, Alstonville, Ballina, Casino and Murwillumbah have all been deployed to the scene.

Local police have set up a command post.

“The school, which had been abandoned since the 2022 floods, was extensively damaged,” police said in a statement.

“There are no reports of injuries, and a number of nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.

“The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

“Local traffic diversions are in place while emergency services remain at the scene.”

Although no injuries had been reported, paramedics remained at the scene while the fire operation, expected to last well into Saturday morning, continued.

Originally published as North Lismore: Fire crews battle massive blaze at old Richmond River High